Biology is taught as a separate Science subject, by a specialist teacher, throughout Junior School. The material covered in these first three years of Biology underpin the specification requirements of GCSE. We view our Junior School as an opportunity to start preparing our young people for future attainment but we hope our pupils have some fun along the way. The variety of reading, writing and audio-visual activities employed daily in our classrooms are designed to build depth and width across the topics so that understanding and problem solving skills can be gained. The early development of good practical skills is a key area in the Biology Department here at the Academy.

Pupils study the CCEA GCSE Revised Specification.

The specification has three units:

• Unit 1 – Cells, Living Processes and Biodiversity. Written examination in the summer of F5 – 35%.

• Unit 2 – Body Systems, Genetics, Microorganisms and Health. Written examination in the summer of F5 – 40%.

• Unit 3 – Practical Skills. Practical examination (7.5%) during Term 2 of Form 5 and written examination (17.5%) in the summer of Form 5.

A Level pupils follow the CCEA Specification:

• Unit AS 1: Molecules and Cells. Written examination in the summer of Lower 6 (37.5% of AS and 15% of A Level).

• Unit AS 2: Organisms and Biodiversity. Written examination in the summer of Lower 6 (37.5% of AS and 15% of A Level).

• Unit AS 3: Practical Skills in AS Biology. Written examination in the summer of Lower 6 and internal practical assessment (25% of AS and 10% of A Level).

• Unit A2 1: Physiology, Coordination and Control, and Ecosystems. Written examination in the summer of Middle 6 (24% of A Level).

• Unit A2 2: Biochemistry, Genetics and Evolutionary Trends. Written examination in the summer of Middle 6 (24% of A Level).

• Unit A2 3: Practical Skills in Biology. Written examination in the summer of Middle 6 and internal practical assessment (12% of A Level).